Attorney in sex assault case says 2 charges unconstitutional

She says they violate Islamic leader's religious freedom

1:10 AM,
Nov. 5, 2013

Nermin Spahic, left.

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An attorney for a Des Moines Islamic leader charged with sexual abuse and exploitation has asked a judge to drop two of the charges, arguing that they violate the man's religious freedom.

In a motion to dismiss filed last week in Polk County District Court, Des Moines defense attorney Angela Campbell argued Nermin Spahic, 40, had never met the two women who accused him of sexual abuse before the day of a religious ceremony that led to his arrest. The motion also says Spahic never claimed to offer "mental health services" or counseling.